National Minority Day is being observed today

National Minority Day is being observed today ( Sunday) to honour the services and sacrifices, rendered by religious minorities for the country over the years.

President Dr Arif Alvi has said that the Constitution of Pakistan fully guaranteed equal rights to the minorities as they were the important pillar of the society.

The president, in a message on the National Minorities’ Day , said a country could not aspire to achieve progress unless its nation had a unity in its ranks. It was the objective behind observance of the day on August 11 every year.

He urged upon the nation to reiterate its resolve for promotion of brotherhood and tolerance in the society without being hostage to any kind of prejudice, a press release said.

The president said the purpose of observing the day was to highlight the message of Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who had pronounced equal rights to all citizens of Pakistan.

This very day also recognizes the contribution and sacrifices of minorities in creation of Pakistan and nation-building. On this occasion, events, seminars and social gatherings are arranged across the country by members of various religious minorities and the ministry of National Harmony.

The Government of Pakistan declared 11 August as National Minority Day in 2009. It has always been the endeavour of the Government to safeguard fundamental rights, safety, security, honour, life, liberty and prosperity of minorities in line with the historic speech of founder of the nation Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah at the Constituent Assembly on August 11, 1947.

Nonetheless, the National Minorities Day not only expresses gratitude for the contributions, made by these religious communities, but also professes that future development of Pakistan hinges crucially on their efforts.

 

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Millions of Hujjaj moved towards Mina and the view is breath taking

Millions of Hujjaj, who spent the whole night in the open sky offering prayers in Muzdalfa have moved towards Mina after Fajr prayers.

After reaching Mina, they will perform stoning at Jamarat Al-Aqba, sacrifice animals, shave their heads and then leave for Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Ifada and Sai', two other pillars of Hajj.

In the remaining days of Hajj, Pilgrims will perform the only ritual of stoning at each of the three Jamarat in Mina.

Read More: Annual ritual to change Ghilaf-e-Kaaba held at Masjid al-Haram

Yesterday about two million pilgrims from around the world converge in Arafat to perform main ritual of Hajj "Waqoof-e-Arafat".

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Norway mosque shooting: Police take into custody suspect in firing on mosque

A gunman armed with multiple weapons opened fire in a mosque near Oslo on Saturday, injuring one person before being overpowered by an elderly worshipper and arrested, Norwegian police and witnesses said.

Hours after the attack, the body of a young woman related to the suspect was found in a home in the suburb of Baerum where the shooting took place earlier in the day, police said Saturday evening.

Investigators are treating her death as suspicious and have opened a murder probe.

The head of the mosque described the assailant as a young white man dressed in black and said he was wearing a helmet and bulletproof vest.

He said only three people had been inside the al-Noor Islamic centre at the time of the attack.

Police was alerted to the shooting shortly after 4 pm (1400 GMT).

Officers first reported that a victim had been shot, but later clarified one person had sustained "minor injuries" and that it was unclear if they were gunshot wounds.

Police said the suspect appeared to have acted on his own.

"It is a Norwegian young man, with a Norwegian background. He lives in the vicinity," Oslo police spokesman Rune Skjold had told a press conference earlier Saturday.

Skjold added that the suspect had been known to police before the incident but could not be described as someone with a "criminal background".

Norway was the scene of one of the worst-ever attacks by a right-wing extremist in July 2011, when 77 people were killed by Anders Behring Breivik.

"One of our members has been shot by a white man with a helmet and uniform," Irfan Mushtaq, head of the mosque, told local media.

Mushtaq said that the man had carried multiple weapons, but that he had been subdued by a member of the mosque.

Mushtaq himself had arrived at the scene shortly after being alerted about the gunman and had gone to the back of the building while waiting for police to arrive.

"Then I see that there are cartridges scattered and blood on the carpets, and I see one of our members is sitting on the perpetrator, covered in blood," Mushtaq told Norwegian newspaper VG.

He said the man who apparently overpowered the shooter was 75 years old and had been reading the Koran after a prayer session.

According to Mushtaq, the mosque had not received any threats ahead of the shooting.

The attack took place on the eve of the Muslim celebration of Eid Al-Adha, marking the end of the Muslim pilgrimage Hajj.

Police said Saturday they would be sending out more officers so that those celebrating would "be as safe as possible".

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Role of minorities in making, progress of Pakistan cannot be forgotten: Interior Minister

Federal Minister for Interior Ijaz Ahmad Shah has said Pakistan is not less than a heaven for minorities, on Sunday.

Addressing a ceremony held for minorities in Nankana Sahib, the minister said Hitler government is ruling India. He said the role of minorities in making and progress of Pakistan cannot be forgotten.

Condemning the oppression on unarmed Kashmiris by the hands of Indian occupied forces, the Shah said minorities in India including, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and other facing discriminatory behavior.

He said Pakistan belongs to Baba Guru Nanak whose teachings can lead us towards the peace and prosperity. He said a country cannot progress unless justice prevails.

He said all of us must play our role honestly to make this country great.

Other speakers on the occasion also condemned the brutalities of occupied forces in Indian held Kashmir.

It may be noted that India facing criticism over stripping occupied Kashmir’s special status, last week.

 

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Iran agrees to adopt joint strategy with Pakistan on Kashmir issue

Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaisar has made a telephone call to his Iranian counterpart Ali Larijani to apprise him of the evolving situation in the Indian Occupied Kashmir and Indian violation of the UN Security Council.

During their conversation, both the sides condemned the Indian serious human rights violations in occupied Kashmir and agreed to adopt joint strategy for highlighting Kashmir cause at international forum.

Asad Qaisar said the curfew imposed by Indian government in Occupied Kashmir to make them hostage is a shameful act.

He said Pakistan considers its brother and neighbor, Iran, an important friend of its difficult time.

He said Pakistan is following parliamentary diplomacy to expose India's ulterior motives for abolishing Kashmir's special status in the Indian constitution and making Kashmir its colony.

The Iranian counterpart said the unrest in Kashmir is causing apprehension for all the countries living in the subcontinent.

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Over 45 UK MPs, Peers urge UN Chief to take India's Kashmir move to UNSC

Over forty-five members of parliament and peers from United Kingdom have called on U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres to intervene and prevent India’s unconstitutional attack on Kashmir's autonomy.

These MPs and peers have co-signed a letter, written by MP Warrington South, Faisal Rashid expressing deep concern that Indian government has revoked Article 370 of the constitution, stripping Kashmir of its autonomous status.

The letter termed the unilateral Indian decision a direct attack on the political status of Kashmir and its right to self-governance.

The MPs called on UN Secretary-General to urgently bring this matter to the attention of Security Council as a serious threat to international peace and security.

A separate letter, written by members of European Parliament to High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, expressed concerns on the recent developments in the Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

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Over 45 UK MPs, Peers urge UN Chief to take India's Kashmir move to UNSC

Over forty-five members of parliament and peers from United Kingdom have called on U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres to intervene and prevent India’s unconstitutional attack on Kashmir's autonomy.

These MPs and peers have co-signed a letter, written by MP Warrington South, Faisal Rashid expressing deep concern that Indian government has revoked Article 370 of the constitution, stripping Kashmir of its autonomous status.

The letter termed the unilateral Indian decision a direct attack on the political status of Kashmir and its right to self-governance.

The MPs called on UN Secretary-General to urgently bring this matter to the attention of Security Council as a serious threat to international peace and security.

A separate letter, written by members of European Parliament to High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, expressed concerns on the recent developments in the Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

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US must do more to help defuse situation in Kashmir : Asad Majeed

Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States Dr Asad Majeed Khan called on the Trump administration to help ease tensions after India revoked autonomy of Kashmir.

In an interview, Khan said the US and only the US could do and must do more to help defuse the situation in Kashmir, and to inject some sanity on the Indian side.

“Kashmir even according to India’s own constitution has enjoyed a special status. What India has done is to unilaterally change the status of the territory which is recognised by the entire international community including the United Nations as a disputed territory and we as a party to that dispute have a serious issue with what India has done,” the envoy said.

He continued, “The consequences of India’s action has led to a lock-down in the region and India actually has its troops present in the valley, turning the whole valley into the largest prison in the world with about 12 million people watched by troops and we are concerned about it.”

Responding to a question about Pakistan’s response on the situation, the ambassador said, “The world saw our restraint even during the Pulwama crisis where India violated our sovereignty and sent aircraft to bomb our side of the territory, even in the face of that kind of aggression our response was very measured.”

“Our response was dictated by restraint. Our prime minister was here on a visit to the US and consistently spoke about Pakistan’s desire for peace. I think we remain committed to that but essentially I think what is really important is that this escalation we are seeing on India’s side needs to be de-escalated for the two countries to engage in dialogue.”

Referring to US President Donald Trump’s offer of mediation over the Kashmir issue, Khan said: “We welcome the president’s offer to do so. India did not accept the offer. I think the US continued engagement has an important role to play in not just adding — trying to help two countries have a dialogue to resolve the issue but also to urge India to undo things they have done over the last week in unleashing pressure, arresting people across the board, in turning the valley into a huge prison.”

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PM Imran apprises King of Bahrain about situation of occupied Kashmir on phone

Prime Minister Imran Khan has made a telephone call to the King of Bahrain, Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, to apprise him of the evolving situation in the Occupied Kashmir and Indian violation of the UN Security Council resolutions.

Prime Minister Imran Khan strongly condemned and rejected the announcement made by the Government of India and underlined that they are in violation of UNSC Resolution.

He stressed that IOK is an internationally recognized disputed territory and no unilateral step by Indian Government can change the disputed status as maintained in the UNSC Resolution.

He stressed that international community must play its role to stop India from this irresponsible and unilateral action to maintain peace and stability of the region.

King of Bahrain said his government is closely monitoring the developments in Indian occupied Kashmir with deep concern and hopes that all issues would be resolved through dialogue.

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Gas prices likely to be increase before Eid

The government on Friday hiked minimum gas charges by 39% for almost all consumer categories, except 9% increase for commercial and no change for domestic consumers.

The decision was notified by the Oil and Gas Regu­latory Authority on the advice of the Ministry of Energy, Petroleum Divi­sion. Minimum gas charges are payable by every consumer irrespective of consumption levels. This also means that even a closed premises having gas connection but zero consumption is required to pay this charge.

According to the notification, the minimum gas charges for residential consumers have been kept unchanged at Rs173 per million British Thermal Unit. All the increases in minimum charges have been made to come into force with retrospective effect from 01 July 2019.

The minimum charges on the other hand have been reduced by 17% to Rs 3900 per month from Rs 4680 for government and semi-government offices, hospitals, official guesthouses, armed forces messes, Rangers, educational institutions, orphanages and bulk residential consumers.

The minimum charges for commercial consumers and ice factories have been increased by 9.1% to Rs 6,415 per month from Rs 5,880 and those for general industries by 38.6% to Rs 36,450 per month from Rs 26,302.

The minimum rates for registered manufacturers or exporters of five zero-rated sectors and their captive powers, including textile, jute, carpets, leather, sports and surgical goods, have also been increased by 38.6% to Rs 28,060 per month from Rs 20,232.

The minimum charges for CNG and cement have been increased by 38.6% to Rs 45,803 per month from Rs 33,046 and those for the power sector, including Wapda, IPPs and K-Electric, by 38.7% to Rs 29,417 per month from Rs21,210.

The rates for captive power plants of industrial units carrying out the activity of power production for self-consumption or sale of surplus to others, including a distribution company or bulk consumer, have been increased by 39pc to Rs36,450 per month from Rs26,302.

Responding to a question, the official said the Petroleum Division had not yet received in writing a recent decision of the Economic Coordination Committee ECC of the cabinet about a reduction in gas price for tandoors because it had not yet been formally endorsed by the cabinet. He said another notification would be issued once the ECC and cabinet decision for the reduction in gas price for tandoors was received.

The government had on June 29 increased gas tariff by up to 200% for domestic and 31% for all other categories under an agreement with the International Monetary Fund to generate about Rs510bn during the current fiscal year. The revised prices are required by the law to become effective on July 1 and Jan 1 every year.

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China fully supports Pakistan's decision to go to UNSC over Kashmir issue: FM Qureshi

China has expressed serious concerns on the latest escalation of tensions in Kashmir.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi while talking to his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi in Beijing today said the Kashmir issue is a dispute left from the colonial history and it should be properly and peacefully resolved based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreement.

Wang Yi said his country will continue to support Pakistan in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests and uphold justice for Pakistan on the international arena.

He said China believes that unilateral actions that will complicate the situation should not be taken.

He stressed that as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China and Pakistan have understood and supported each other on issues concerning our respective core interests.

Wang Yi called on both Pakistan and India to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia, properly resolve historical grievances, get rid of the zero-sum mindset, avoid unilateral action and seek a new path to peaceful coexistence.

Later, talking to media after his two and half hours long meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing today, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said China fully supports Pakistan's decision to go to UN Security Council over Kashmir and assured complete cooperation in this regard.

He said Chinese side agreed that steps taken by India are unilateral that have changed the status quo and structure of occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Wang Yi also agreed that Indian steps could jeopardize the peace and stability in the region.

The Foreign Minister said his Chinese counterpart was in concurrence that Jammu and Kashmir has been recognized as a disputed region and its resolution should also be in the light of UN resolutions.

He said Chinese side was informed that after lifting of curfew in occupied Kashmir, a new era of atrocities could start in the territory evoking reactions.

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Annual ritual to change Ghilaf-e-Kaaba held at Masjid al-Haram

About two million pilgrims from around the world converge in Arafat to perform main ritual of Hajj "Waqoof-e-Arafat" today.

They will listen sermon to be delivered at Nimra Mosque and perform Dhuhr and Asr prayers together.

The pilgrims will spend time in Arafat with prayers for acceptance of their pilgrimage and recitation of Qur’anic verses until sunset.

After sunset, they will head to Muzdalifah, where they will stay until midnight, engaged in prayers after performing combined Maghreb and Isha prayers.

Meanwhile, the annual ritual to change Ghilaf-e-Kaaba was held at Masjid al-Haram in Saudi Arabia where millions of Muslims have gathered to perform Hajj.

The new Ghilaf has been prepared at a cost of seven million Saudi Riyal. Six hundred seventy kilogram pure silk, 120 kilogram gold and one hundred kilogram silver have been used in it.

The covering cloth of the Kaaba, known as Kiswa, is changed on 9th Zilhaj every year on the day of Arafat.

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If India undertakes any misadventure, Pakistan shall respond stronger than Feb 27

Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor has vowed to give an even stronger response than of February 27, 2019 if Indian Army attempts to undertake any misadventure.

The DG ISPR on Friday took to Twitter and wrote, “Should there be an attempt by Indian Army to undertake any misadventure, Pakistan’s response shall be even stronger than that of 27 Feb 2019.

Should there be an attempt by Indian Army to undertake any misadventure, Pakistan’s response shall be even stronger than that of 27 Feb 2019.
Thousands of Indian troops have failed to suppress just struggle of brave Kashmiris for decades. Current surge won’t succeed either.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 8, 2019

 

“Thousands of Indian troops have failed to suppress just struggle of brave Kashmiris for decades. Current surge won’t succeed either.”

Usual blatant lies. An attempt to carve out causes belli for a misadventure to divert world attention from precarious situation & atrocities in IOJ&K. While IOJ&K faces media blackout, AJ&K is open to foreign media & UNMOGIP to visit place of their own choosing. Can you do same? https://t.co/dVVMVxcKIs

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 8, 2019

The Chinar Corps had accused that Pakistan had been openly threatening about certain incidents in Kashmir.

 

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Will bear PM's injustice but wont bow down before him: Shehbaz

Opposition Leader in National Assembly (NA) Shehbaz Sharif on Friday has claimed that steps like arrest of Maryam Nawaz are being taken to divert the attention of the people from government’s failed policies on occupied Kashmir matter.

Speaking in the House, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president said that Nawaz Sharif was only accused of serving the nation by saving billions of rupees from mega projects while Maryam was detained for coming out of her house for her father and the people of Pakistan.

Will continue to bear Prime Minister Imran Khan’s injustice but wont bow down before him, he clarified.

He regretted that Maryam was arrested in front of her father and children. He further accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of being in “an alliance” with the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

The leader said that Rs70 billion was spent on accountability bureau in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) but the government closed it. The masses could have prayed for the success of incumbent government if it provided them relief by decreasing the inflation, he went on to say.

Reacting to Shehbaz Sharif’s speech, PTI leader and Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafqat Mehmood advised PML-N leaders to better prove their innocence in corruption cases.

He said that the PML-N representatives should defend themselves in court regarding their looted money. They (PML-N members) are using Parliament to conceal their wrongdoings, he continued.

Shafqat Mehmood said that Sharif family was involved in money laundering and bought four of its flats in London with embezzled money.

He claimed that shares of Maryam Nawaz in a sugar mill were brought with telegraphic transfers.

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PML-N Leader Rana's judicial remand extended till August 24

A court on Friday extended the judicial physical remand of senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Rana Sanaullah till August 24 in a drug-related case.

During today’s hearing, the PML-N leader was handed copies of the challan again him. The court also directed the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) to present closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage at the next hearing.

The court further said, if a document was missing from the challan, then they be informed regarding that on the next hearing.

Sanaullah’s lawyer Mohsin Bhatti told the court, there was Rs600,000 in his client's car which was not returned.

Approving Sanuallah’s request, the court directed the PML-N leader's belongings be returned.

On July 1, Sanaullah was arrested by ANF from near the Sukheke area in Punjab.

Sanaullah, a member of the National Assembly (MNA) and president of the PML-N's Punjab wing, was said to have been arrested in a drug-related case. ANF officials said he was arrested while travelling with his guards to a meeting from Faisalabad to Lahore.

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Chaudhry Sugar Mills case: Maryam Nawaz remanded in NAB custody till August 21

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who was arrested by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday, was remanded into NAB's custody till August 21.

Yousaf Abbas, a cousin of Maryam Nawaz who was also arrested by NAB the same day, was produced before the court alongside the PML-N leader, as the accountability watchdog sought a 15-day physical remand for the two.

PML-N leader Hamza Shehbaz, the son of opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif, was also present in the court in relation to the Ramzan Sugar Mills case.

A scuffle broke out between PML-N workers, who had gathered outside the court premises, and police personnel as Maryam Nawaz was escorted to the hearing earlier today.

Enraged PML-N workers were seen pelting stones at the police, with at least one policeman reportedly injured in the ensuing chaos.

The court has reserved its judgment on NAB's appeal for a 15-day physical remand of Maryam Nawaz.

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Indian move of annexation of occupied Kashmir historic blunder: PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan has termed the Indian move of annexation of occupied Kashmir a historic blunder and said it would give a new impetus to the indigenous freedom struggle.

Talking to senior journalists at the PM Office in Islamabad, he said the India's move to end special status of occupied Kashmir is not interest-driven, but is based on an ideology of Hindu racism and Hindu supremacy.

Imran Khan said India’s measures towards ethnic cleansing reminded one of Hitler’s Nazism.            

He said the ongoing indigenous movement in the occupied Kashmir is the result of years of oppression and failure of the Indian government to win the hearts and minds of Kashmiris.

He said Pakistan anticipated that after lifting of curfew, situation in the occupied Kashmir could rapidly deteriorate and there might be a false flag operation, to blame Pakistan.  

Imran Khan asked the international community to play its role in addressing the situation and help avert the genocide of the Kashmiris.        

He said even the saner elements in India are voicing their concerns and describing the attempt of annexation of occupied Kashmir as a historical mistake.

The prime minister said the issue could not be resolved through war as war between the two nuclear states would be disastrous. Once a war started, it would be beyond anyone's control.         

He said an attempt to change the demographics of the Indian occupied Kashmir is a violation of the Article 49 of the Geneva Convention.

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Kashmir Issue: Pakistan puts India on backfoot by aggressive diplomacy at UN

Pakistani Ambassador Maleeha Lodhi underscored the imperative need for ensuring that the crisis triggered by India’s ‘unlawful annexation’ of Jammu and Kashmir was addressed in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions on Kashmir.

The envoy said this during her meeting with the UN’s political affairs chief on Thursday amid intense diplomatic activity, according to informed sources.

Her meeting with Rosemary DiCarlo, Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs, was part of a series of contacts she has been making to brief senior UN officials and diplomats from all regions of the world about Pakistan’s stand on the Indian government decision to strip occupied Kashmir of its special status and placing the disputed state under a lockdown.

A statement issued later on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the critical importance of UN resolutions on Kashmir to deal with the crisis.

Ambassador Lodhi also met three non-permanent members of the UN Security Council — Kuwait, Indonesia and South Africa — as India, obviously on back foot, also stepped up its campaign to have the world believe that the decision was taken for the socio-economic development of the Kashmiris and that they enjoy the same rights as the Indians.

Briefing Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, the Pakistani envoy focused on the illegality of Indian action, and called on the United Nations, especially the Secretary-General, to clearly enunciate its position on the subject, according to the sources.

She also informed Ms. DiCarlo about the complete lockdown in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including shut down of internet services and land-lines that had begun even before the announcement about the controversial decision on Kashmir.

Lodhi also briefed her about continued Indian ceasefire violations across the Line of Control, the most egregious of which was the use of cluster munitions a day before announcing the abrogation of the Indian Constitution’s Article 370, which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Ms. DiCarlo noted Pakistan’s concerns and once again expressed the Secretary-General’s willingness to use his good offices — something that India continues to reject.

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Sugar Mills case: Maryam appears before accountability court as NAB seeks 15-day remand

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau on Thursday, appeared before an accountability court today in connection with the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

Yousaf Abbas, a cousin of Maryam Nawaz who was also arrested by NAB the same day, was produced before the court alongside the PML-N leader, as the accountability watchdog sought a 15-day physical remand for the two.

PML-N leader Hamza Shehbaz, the son of opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif, was also present in the court in relation to the Ramzan Sugar Mills case.

A scuffle broke out between PML-N workers, who had gathered outside the court premises, and police personnel as Maryam Nawaz was escorted to the hearing earlier today.

Enraged PML-N workers were seen pelting stones at the police, with at least one policeman reportedly injured in the ensuing chaos.

The court has reserved its judgment on NAB's appeal for a 15-day physical remand of Maryam Nawaz.

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More than two million Muslims begin Hajj pilgrimage

More than two million Muslims began the annual Hajj on Friday.

According to official statistics issued by Saudi General Directorate of Passports, 1.604 million pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia for Hajj, an increase of eight per cent or 117,000 pilgrims compared to the same period in 2018.

In Makkah and other holy sites, the Saline Water Conversion Corporation, SWCC, aims to achieve a new record in 2019, by supplying one million cubic metres of potable water per day during the Hajj season, an increase of 10 per cent compared to 2018.

In Mina, an area of eight-square kilometres has been allocated to some 45,000 tents, to provide accommodation for 1.5 million pilgrims.

The area can host 118,000 people per hour and accommodate 70,000 worshipers.

Some 141,800 pilgrims who arrived on 355 flights also benefited from the Makkah Route initiative — a service launched by the Kingdom that includes issuing visas, ensuring compliance with health requirements, and codifying and sorting luggage at airports in the pilgrims’ own countries.

"All of the arms of state have been deployed (and) we are proud to serve as 'God's hosts'," said security forces spokesman Bassam Attia.

In total some 2.5 million faithful, the majority from abroad, will undertake the pilgrimage this year, according to local media.

"More than 1.8 million visas were delivered online without the need for middlemen. It's a success," said Hajj ministry official Hatim bin Hassan Qadi.

"We feel cleansed by achieving this pillar of Islam and meeting people from across the world. It's marvellous," said Mohamed Jaafar, a 40-year-old Egyptian pilgrim.

'An indescribable feeling'

"It's an indescribable feeling. You have to live it to understand it," said an Algerian in his fifties completing the pilgrimage for the first time.

"It's a golden opportunity and moment," said his female companion.

Mecca, built in a desert valley, is home to the Kaaba, a cube structure that is the focal point of Islam and draped in a gold-embroidered black cloth.

Muslims around the world pray towards the Kaaba, which is located in the Grand Mosque, and pilgrims walk around it seven times.

Worshippers will participate in weekly prayers late on Friday morning.

During the pilgrimage, separate streams of men and women, grouped by nationality, will travel to Mina on foot or in buses provided by the authorities.

A district of Mecca, Mina sits in a narrow valley surrounded by rocky mountains and is transformed each year into a vast encampment for pilgrims.

A total of "350,000 air-conditioned tents have been pitched," said a Saudi official.

Worshippers will climb Mount Arafat, also known as the "Mount of Mercy", for hours of prayers and Koran recitals.

After descending, they will gather pebbles and perform the symbolic "stoning of the devil".

That marks the beginning of Eid-ul-Azha, the festival of sacrifice, marked on Sunday.

Pilgrims then return to the Grand Mosque to perform a final "tawaf" or walk around the Kaaba.

The scale of the pilgrimage presents vast security and logistical challenges, with tens of thousands of safety officers deployed.

The Hajj, one of the world's largest religious gatherings, is one of Islam's five pillars and must be undertaken by all Muslims with the means at least once in their lives.

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Pakistan response to any Indian misadventure to be stronger than Feb 27: DG ISPR

Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor on Friday said Pakistan’s response shall be even stronger than that of February 27, should there be an attempt by Indian Army to undertake any misadventure.

The military’s media spokesperson in a post on Twitter said, "Should there be an attempt by Indian Army to undertake any misadventure, Pakistan’s response shall be even stronger than that of February 27 2019."

He added, "Thousands of Indian troops have failed to suppress just struggle of brave Kashmiris for decades. Current surge won’t succeed either."

In response to a spokesperson of the Indian Ministry of Defence accusing Pakistan of openly threatening about certain incidents in a video briefing, DG ISPR rejected the allegations as "usual blatant lies."

“Usual blatant lies. An attempt to carve out causes belli for a misadventure to divert world attention from precarious situation & atrocities in IOJ&K. While IOJ&K faces media blackout, AJ&K is open to foreign media & UNMOGIP to visit place of their own choosing. Can you do same?”, he tweeted.

Should there be an attempt by Indian Army to undertake any misadventure, Pakistan’s response shall be even stronger than that of 27 Feb 2019.
Thousands of Indian troops have failed to suppress just struggle of brave Kashmiris for decades. Current surge won’t succeed either.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 8, 2019

A day earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan said Pakistan does not want war, however, if India imposes, then it will give a befitting response.

In a meeting with senior journalists, the prime minister said Pakistan will take the issue of Indian violence against Kashmiris to the United Nations.

He further said, the international community will be apprised of the Indian tactics, such as ethnic cleansing and plans to change the demography of occupied Kashmir.

The Indian government on Monday rushed through a presidential decree to abolish Article 370 of the Constitution which grants special status to Indian occupied Kashmir, as tensions mounted in the disputed valley with unprecedented numbers of Indian troops deployed in the region.

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FM Qureshi reaches China on diplomatic mission

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has reached China on a diplomatic mission along with foreign secretary Sohail Mehmood and senior officials of the Foreign Ministry.

During his visit, the foreign minister will hold meetings with the top leadership of China.

The Chinese leadership will be apprised of the illegal move of the Indian government by revoking the special status of occupied Kashmir and grave violations of human rights in the valley.

Talking to media, prior leaving to Beijing, Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said he is leaving for China to hold consultations with the Chinese leadership on developments arising out of India’s move to revoke special status of occupied Kashmir.

Speaking to media, he said the government conveyed its concerns over the Indian decision to various countries across the globe and invited the Diplomatic Corps to the Foreign Office to keep them abreast of the situation in the region as well.

FM Qureshi had expressed the fear that India can stage a Pulwama-like incident to divert world attention from the situation in Kashmir.

He said India has deployed an unprecedented number of 900,000 troops in the occupied territory.

It must be noted that on August 5, India’s BJP government moved a bill in the upper house of the parliament (Rajaya Sabha) to remove Article 370 from the Indian constitution amid opposition members’ protest.

It was later signed by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, stripping the state of Kashmir off its special status and turning it a Union Territory with the legislature.

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If India imposes war, then will give befitting response: PM Khan

Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Thursday that Pakistan does not want war, however, if India imposes, then it will give a befitting response.

PM Imran met with senior journalists today, where he spoke about the ongoing political situation after India revoked occupied Kashmir’s special status.

PM Imran said that Pakistan will take the issue of Indian violence against Kashmiris to the United Nations.

He said that the international community will be apprised of the Indian tactics, such as ethnic cleansing and plans to change demography of occupied Kashmir.

PM Imran said that he always spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about peace, adding that the Indian PM has the mind set of ‘Hitler’.

The prime minister said that this is a war of public opinion and Pakistan has to win it.

He said that India can resort to any measure to divert attention from the situation in occupied Kashmir. 

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NAB arrests Maryam Nawaz, Yousaf Abbas in Chaudhry Mills case

Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

Yousaf Abbas, a cousin of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has also been arrested by NAB.

In a press release, NAB stated that Maryam Nawaz and Yousaf Abbas had been arrested in connection with the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case. The press release added that on the directives of NAB chairman a team of doctors would conduct a medical examination of Maryam Nawaz and Yousaf Abbas. Both will be presented before an accountability court on Friday for remand.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif was arrested prior to meeting her father, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif at the Kot Lakhpat Jail. She was later taken to the NAB office in Lahore.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif had been summoned by NAB at 3pm today for questioning in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case. According to reports, she had informed NAB she would not be appearing as she had to meet her father.

The PML-N leader had appeared before NAB on July 31 and recorded her statement in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

The arrest of the PML-N leader was mentioned by Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari during the National Assembly session earlier today. “In this Naya Pakistan you have arrested Maryam Nawaz without any conviction,” he said.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar on Wednesday said the Sharif family had used Chaudhry Sugar Mills for money-laundering and illegal transfer of its shares.

Addressing a press conference, Shahzad Akbar said in the year 2008, the mill’s shares were transferred to Maryam Nawaz, who later transferred some seven million of them to Yousaf Abbas in 2010.

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Pakistan will continue political, diplomatic and moral support to Kashmiris: FO

Pakistan has categorically rejected Indian statement terming the worsening situation in occupied Kashmir as its “internal matter.

“Pakistan categorically rejects India’s [statement] that Kashmir is an internal matter, but it is disputed territory”, said Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal in his weekly press conference in Islamabad.

He added that Pakistan will continue its political, diplomatic and moral support to Kashmiris in achieving their right to self-determination.

Shedding light on the yesterday’s meeting of National Security Committee (NSC), the spokesperson said, India has been informed about the decision taken by the country’s top civil and military brass.

“India has been given a strong response over its unilateral step of stripping occupied Kashmir of its special status.”

He stated that Ajay Bisaria, the Indian High Commissioner has been asked to leave Pakistan and Islamabad has also informed India about not sending its designated envoy to New Delhi.

Commenting on the current situation in the Indian occupied Kashmir, Dr Faisal said, Kashmir has been turned into the biggest jail of the globe, internet, mobile services have been suspended, people are facing hardships due to the shortage of edible, he said. “American delegation was also apprised about the situation of the held valley.”

Dr Faisal said Pakistan will continue development work at the Kartarpur corridor.

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Court grants 11 days judicial remand to Miftah Ismail

An Accountability Court of Islamabad on Thursday sent PML-N leader and former finance adviser Miftah Ismail into custody of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for 10 days in LNG tenders case.

A NAB team produced Miftah and Imranul Haq before Accountability Court amid tight security where the anti-graft body presented record of both accused.

It is to be noted that NAB on Wednesday had arrested Ismail and former MD of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) Sheikh Imran-ul-Haq in LNG corruption reference.

The arrests took place after Islamabad High Court rejected politician’s plea seeking extension in pre-arrest bail.

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Saudi Arabia express concerns over India's abolition of Article 370

Saudi Arabia has expressed concerns over the latest developments in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and has affirmed its stand that conflict should be settled through peaceful means in accordance with the relevant international resolutions.

Official source at the Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry said that it is following the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir resulting from India's abolition of Article 370 of the Constitution, which guarantees the autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir.

It also called on the parties concerned to maintain peace and stability in the region and take into account the interests of the people of the region.

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US lifts travel restrictions on movement of Pakistani officials

Days after successful visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to the US, Washington on Wednesday lifted restrictions on the movement of Pakistani diplomats and officials in the United States (US).

Sources said that the Pakistani diplomatic staff had to take permission at least five days ahead from the US authorities if they needed to travel outside of the imposed 25 miles radius.

Now, the Pakistani diplomats could travel in the US without any hurdle, said the sources. The US had imposed travel restrictions on Pakistani diplomats, officials and their family members last year on May 11.

Earlier on May 11, soon after following the implementation of U.S restrictions on Pakistani diplomats, the Foreign Ministry had announced ‘reciprocal’ travel restrictions on U.S. diplomats.

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Indian HC Ajay Bisaria expected to leave Pakistan today: Source

Indian High Commissioner (HC) Ajay Bisaria is expected to leave Pakistan on Thursday (today), after being expelled in the light of National Security Committee (NSC) decisions, citing diplomatic sources.

Bisaria will leave for India through Wagah border. He remained Indian HC to Pakistan for 19 months and 25 days.

According to a statement released by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Government of India has been told to withdraw its High Commissioner to Pakistan.

“The Indian government has also been informed that Pakistan will not be sending its High Commissioner-designate to India,” reads a press release.

Earlier, the National Security Committee (NSC) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan took some important decisions to counter the Indian move and decided to suspend all bilateral trade with India.

As per details, the NSC meeting discussed the situation arising out of unilateral and illegal actions by the Indian government, situation inside Indian Occupied Kashmir and along Line of Control (LOC).

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Umar Akmal reports fixing approach

Pakistani batsman Umar Akmal has reported a fixing approach made to him during his ongoing stint at the Global T20 Canada league by a former Pakistan Test cricketer, suggest reports.

The former international has reported the approach to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the matter is being looked into by the Canadian league’s anti-corruption team.

Several high-profile Pakistani cricketers, including former captains Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik and Shahid Afridi, are featuring in the Canadian league.

The 29-year-old Umar Akmal is part of the Winnipeg Hawks and has reportedly named an official of his franchise.

Failure to report a fixing approach can lead to a maximum ban of five years.

 

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5.9 Magnitude earthquake jolts several parts of country

A strong earthquake of 5.9 magnitude jolted parts of the country in the early Thursday morning.

According to details, tremors were felt in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sargodha, Jhang, Mianwali, Kasur, Chiniot, Peshawar, Kohat, Mardan, Abbottabad, Malakand, North Waziristan on other cities of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

People came out of their homes in panic and started reciting verses from the Holy Quran. No loss of life and property was reported from any area of the country due to the earthquake.

According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre, Islamabad, the epicenter of the quake which struck on Thursday morning was located in the Hindu Kush range in Afghanistan at the depth of 226 kilometres.

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PM Imran, British counterpart discuss serious situation in IOK

Prime Minister Imran Khan made a telephonic call to his British counterpart, Boris Johnson and discussed serious situation in Occupied Kashmir following Indian illegal action on Kashmir.

According to a statement issued by 10-Downing Street office, both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining dialogue.

Imran Khan also congratulated his British counterpart Boris Johnson on assuming office as the UK Prime Minister.

Both leaders also underscored their continued commitment to the bilateral relationship between the UK and Pakistan.

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PM Imran calls first NDC meeting today

Prime Minister Imran Khan has summoned a meeting of the National Development Council (NDC) on today.

The prime minister will preside over the meeting of the council in his capacity as its chairman.

It is to mention here that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa is a member of the NDC.

Sources say the Azad Jammu and Kashmir prime minister and Gilgil Baltistan chief minister will attend the meet. Besides, the chief executives of all provinces will also be in attendance.

The NDC will get a detailed briefing on measures to resuscitate the national economy.

Various uplift projects will also come under discussion.

It will also review a report on progress thus far made towards bringing investment to the country.

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Pakistan to review bilateral arrangements,suspend trade with India: NSC

The National Security Committee (NSC) on Wednesday, in light of India's recent actions in occupied Kashmir, resolved to downgrade Pakistan's diplomatic relations with New Delhi and suspend all bilateral trade.

The top security body’s meeting presided over by Prime Minister Imran Khan was held to review the situation in the wake of India's shock decision to scrap the special status for occupied Kashmir.

The meeting also decided to review the Pakistan-India bilateral arrangements, take the matter to the United Nations and observe the upcoming Independence Day on August 14 in solidarity with Kashmiris.
"PM directed that all diplomatic channels be activated to expose brutal Indian racist regime, design and human rights violations," a statement issued after the meeting said.
The premier also directed the armed forces to continue their vigilance.

The meeting attended by the top civilian and military leadership also decided to recall Pakistan's ambassador from New Delhi and expel the Indian envoy.

"Our ambassadors will no longer be in New Delhi and their counterparts here will also be sent back," Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told ARY News.

The hours-long meeting was attended by the ministers for foreign affairs, defence, interior, education, human rights, Kashmir affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan and law; finance adviser; chairman of joint chiefs of staff committee, chief of army staff, chief of air staff, vice chief of naval staff, special assistant to the prime minister on information, director general Inter-Services Intelligence, director general Inter-Services Public Relations, secretary foreign affairs and other senior officers.

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At least 18 people killed, over 100 others injured in Kabul Blast

At least 18 people were killed and over 100 others including women and children were wounded in a car bomb explosion that targeted a police headquarters in police district 6 (PD6) of Kabul on Wednesday morning, Public Health Ministry confirmed.

The incident took place at around 9am Kabul time, the Interior Ministry's Nusrat Rahimi said.

Eyewitnesses said gunfire was heard after the car bomb attack, but Rahimi said there was no gunfight after the explosion.

TOLOnews reporter Hasiba Atakpal who visited the blast scene said that a number of houses close to the attack have been damaged.

Taliban claimed responsibly for the blast and claimed that a number of security forces members were killed in the attack.

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Kashmir is jugular vein of Pakistan, Will spill last drop of our blood for Kashmir: Gandapur

Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur said Kashmir is jugular vein of Pakistan and we will fight to the last drop of blood for Kashmir.

Eulogizing the sacrifices of Kashmiris for their right to self-determination, the Minister said India is an occupying force and wants to change the demographic composition of the held territory. He said Pakistani nation stood by their Kashmiri brethren in the past and will do so in the future as well in their quest for freedom from illegal Indian rule.

Ali Amin Gandapur said besides highlighting the issue at all international forums, the friendly nations will be taken into confidence and their help will be sought to force India to stop its oppression on innocent Kashmiris.

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Indian govt's revocation of special status violates rights of Kashmiris: Sam Zarifi

Switzerland-based human rights organization, International Commission of Justice, says the Indian government's revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir violates the rights of representation and participation guaranteed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir under the Indian Constitution and in international law.

In a statement, ICJ Secretary General Sam Zarifi said the Indian government has pushed through these changes in contravention of domestic and international standards with respect to the rights of people in Jammu and Kashmir to participate and be adequately represented.

He said the procedure adopted to revoke the special status and autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir appears to be incompatible with judgments and observations of high courts and the Indian Supreme Court.

The ICJ Secretary General said the move was preceded by a communication blackout, arbitrary detention of political leaders, banned movement and meetings of people, and increased military presence, purportedly to quell protests.

He said the ICJ condemns the legislative steps taken with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, and calls on the Indian Government to implement in full the UN High Commissioner's recommendations, including respecting the right to self-determination of people of Jammu and Kashmir, and to respect, protect and fulfill the human rights of people in Jammu and Kashmir.

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Pakistan Navy successfully captures 1600 KG Hashish near Gwadar

Pakistan Navy in a successful intelligence based operation captured 1600 kilograms of Hashish, a spokesperson of the force said in a statement on Wednesday.

The navy in an anti-narcotics operation captured large haul of hashish near Gwadar, statement said.

Pakistan Navy has handed over captured narcotics to the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), statement said.

According to details the value of the recovered hashish is equal to approximately 32 million dollars.

The operation highlights Pakistan Navy’s resolve to protect the sea limits of Pakistan, the statement added.

Pakistan Navy in an operation in July near Karachi had captured large haul of hashish and heroin from a vessel near Mubarak Village.

The spokesman for Pakistan Navy in a statement said that the intricate operation was done in collaboration with the Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) who constantly kept a check on the suspected vessel and the entire operation as a whole.

Spokesman also said that the operation was testament to the ability and capability of Pakistan Navy and its resolve to keep the seaways of Pakistan clean of any criminal activity or misadventure.

In conclusion he added that Pakistan Navy was ready, willing and able to carry on performing their duties with vigilance and integrity.

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NAB acquires PPP Leadr Khursheed Shah’s assets of worth Rs 500bn

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) unearth assets worth more than Rs.500billion belonging to the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) senior leader Khursheed Shah.

As per details, the accountability watchdog has acquired important documents, which shows assets of more than 500billion rupees of the PPP leader registered under his alleged frontmen.

“Shah has opened as many as 105 banks accounts under his and family members name in Karachi, Sukkur and other cities”, the NAB sources said.

The properties were made in Sukkur, Rohri and Karachi, according to the document and it further reveals that Glamour Bungalow, Junejo Flour Mills, Mukesh Flour Mills including 83 other properties were made under Shah’s frontman, Pehlaj Rai.

More 11 properties were registered under his another frontman Lado Mall and 10 properties were made under name of Hussain Soomro, another frontman of the PPP leader, the document said.

According to the documents available with the NAB, a person namely Umar Jan, also played a vital role for Khursheed Shah. The house and a bombproof car, being used by the PPP leader, are also registered under his name.

It may be noted that last week, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had given approval for inquiry against Pakistan Peoples Party’s Khursheed Shah.

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Miftah Ismail arrested after IHC rejects bail plea

Former Minister for Finance, Miftah Ismail has been taken under custody by the National Accountability Bureau over corruption allegations in the ongoing LNG tenders and quota case, on Wednesday.

Ismail who was attending court proceedings over a bail petition he had submitted prior in the Islamabad High Court was apprehended by a NAB team which got there after the politician’s bail request was rejected by the court.

Investigations officer of the anti-graft watchdog apprised the court that the LNG sector was suffering an annual loss of $228 thousand annually due to the underhanded practices carried out by the previous government functionaries in the past on the matter.

The IO further stated that the Managing Director of Pakistan State Oil was being investigated for his role in the apparent scam.

An Islamabad High Court (IHC) bench on August 2 extended interim bail of former finance minister Miftah Ismail in liquefied natural gas (LNG) quota case till August 7 (today).

IHC bench comprises of Acting Chief Justice Mr. Justice Aamir Farooque and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb heard the case.

Expressing annoyance, the court had directed Miftah to submit further documents in connection with the case.

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Indian tyranny in IoK: Azad Kashmir’s legislative body passes unanimous bill

The legislative assembly of Azad Kashmir called a special session today to address the recent escalation and war hysteria being spread by India against occupied Kashmir after the illegal abrogation of its status as a disputed territory, on Wednesday.

The legislative assembly set forth a motion condemning the devious designs of tyrannical India which was passed unanimously.

The members presided over the session supporting black armbands showing their dismay and disdain towards India’s hegemonic plans.

The assembly also took part in a collective prayer for the martyrs of Kashmir, the freedom fighters and their struggles were lauded, appreciated and upheld as a tremendous sacrifice in the face of pure evil.

On August 5, Indian President had signed a bill to abrogate Article 370, about the special status of Kashmir, from the Indian constitution.

According to the Constitution of India, Article 370 provides provisions regarding special autonomy to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

As per Article 35A, a person cannot acquire any immovable proper in Kashmir if he or she is not a permanent resident of the region.

Article 370 guarantees special status to Kashmir region, restricting the Indian state’s legislative powers.

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India moves from occupation to annexation in IoK: FO spokesman

Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr. Muhammad Faisal says India has moved from occupation to annexation in Occupied Kashmir.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Dr. Muhammad Faisal said: “This too shall fail.”

India moves from #occupationtoannexation in IoK. This too shall fail. #kashmirbleeds

— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@ForeignOfficePk) August 6, 2019

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday warned India over its illegal annexation of Occupied Kashmir and made it clear that Pakistan will raise the issue at every forum.

Read more: India will ethnically cleanse occupied Kashmir: PM Khan

Addressing a National Assembly session convened to discuss the human rights abuses and India’s unilateral scrapping of special status of the occupied valley, the prime minister condemned the Indian move in strong words and said that India’s ruling party is following in the footsteps of the Nazi party in Germany by trying to suppress Kashmiri’s freedom struggle through force.

On August 5, India’s BJP government moved a bill in the upper house of the parliament (Rajaya Sabha) to remove Article 370 from the Indian constitution amid opposition members’ protest. It was later signed by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, stripping the state of Kashmir off its special status and turning it a Union Territory with the legislature.

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Eight injured in blast while defusing explosives material in Nowshera

At least eight people including five policemen on Wednesday got injured due blast while defusing explosive material in Nowshera.

As per details, the blast occurred in Nowshera’s area of Aza Khel Payyan, when the team was defusing the explosive material found in the area.

According to the District Police Officer (DPO) Mansoor Aman, eight people including five policemen got injured in the exercise of defusing the explosives.

The injured were rushed to the nearby medical facility by the rescue teams.

In the month of April this year, a terrorism bid was foiled in DERA MURAD JAMALI and a bomb device planted at railway track near Notal area was defused.

A terrorism suspect who had planted the bomb device at railway track was killed in an exchange of fire with policemen.

 

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FM Qureshi returns to Pakistan from Jeddah, postponed his religious obligations

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi returned to Pakistan after postponing his religious obligations to do his national duty in times of crisis, on Wednesday.

The Foreign Minister came back from Jeddah today morning where he had gone earlier to perform his pre-scheduled Hajj.

The Minister is scheduled to appear in the joint parliamentary session today amidst the rapidly changing regional scenario.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Tuesday (yesterday) that India’s act of abolishing special status for held Kashmir is a blatant violation of international laws and tantamount to playing havoc with regional peace.

He was addressing an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group in Jeddah called to discuss developments in the wake of India’s move to revoke Article 370 of its constitution that stripped the held territory of its special rights.

“Abolishing Article 370 and 35-A by Indian parliament is a flagrant violation of international laws,” Qureshi said.

He lamented that thousands of Kashmiris had been martyred by Indian forces in the occupied territory since 1989.

The foreign minister said the deployment of more troops, closure of educational institutions and imposition of emergency like measures by India in held Kashmir, which is the most militarised region in the world, lay bare malevolent intentions of India.

He said he had brought the attention of the United Nations Security Council and General Secretary OIC to the apprehensions of Pakistan regarding the measures and steps taken by India. He added India’s steps can endanger peace in South Asia.

FM Qureshi urged the participants of the meeting to pay immediate attention towards this issue.

The delegations from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and other member countries participated in the meeting.

The Pakistani delegation was led by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

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PM Imran telephones Saudi crown prince discuss Kashmir issue

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has discussed the latest developments in Indian Occupied Kashmir.

Prime Minister apprised the Saudi crown prince about the latest worsening situation in the held valley amid Modi government’s move to strip it (IoK) of its special status.

According to the Saudi News Agency, SPA both the leaders discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it.

Earlier on August 5, Prime Minister Imran Khan made a telephonic call to his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Muhammad and had a detailed discussion on the prevailing situation in India Occupied Kashmir with him.

During the telephonic conversation, PM Khan regretted doing away with Kashmir’s special status is a breach of international conventions and will play havoc with regional peace.

Later in the same day, the premier had telephoned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and also apprised him about the IoK’s situation.

During the telephonic conversation, the Turkish president expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the occupied Kashmir.

PM Khan had reiterated that Pakistan would continue it’s diplomatic, moral and political support to the cause of Kashmiri struggle for their right to self-determination, as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

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PM Imran telephones Saudi crown prince discuss Kashmir issue

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has discussed the latest developments in Indian Occupied Kashmir.

Prime Minister apprised the Saudi crown prince about the latest worsening situation in the held valley amid Modi government’s move to strip it (IoK) of its special status.

According to the Saudi News Agency, SPA both the leaders discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it.

Earlier on August 5, Prime Minister Imran Khan made a telephonic call to his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Muhammad and had a detailed discussion on the prevailing situation in India Occupied Kashmir with him.

During the telephonic conversation, PM Khan regretted doing away with Kashmir’s special status is a breach of international conventions and will play havoc with regional peace.

Later in the same day, the premier had telephoned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and also apprised him about the IoK’s situation.

During the telephonic conversation, the Turkish president expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the occupied Kashmir.

PM Khan had reiterated that Pakistan would continue it’s diplomatic, moral and political support to the cause of Kashmiri struggle for their right to self-determination, as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

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Lodhi briefs UNSC President over Indian actions in IoK

Pakistan's Ambassador to the United Nations, Dr Maleeha Lodhi spent a busy day on Tuesday briefing the Security Council president, diplomats and UN officials on the grave situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir following India's move to abolish Article 370 of its constitution.

The Pakistani envoy went through a tightly laid-out schedule to apprise as many of her counterparts as possible of the breach by India of UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir, with the revocation of the territory's special status that has spawned a regional crisis.

Lodhi met President of the UN Security Council Joanna Wronecka where she emphasised that the Indian action was "an egregious assault on the dignity of the Kashmiris."

She called on the Security Council to demand that India halt and reverse its unlawful and destabilising actions; ensure full compliance with UN Security Council resolutions; and refrain from any steps that interfere with the settlement of the decades-old Kashmir dispute.

"The tragedy of Kashmir has thus come full circle," the Pakistani envoy told UNSC President, sources said.

In 1947, she pointed out, India occupied Jammu and Kashmir on fallacious grounds.

"The real Indian intention to institute these changes is to alter the demographic structure of the Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir," Ambassador Lodhi told UNSC President Wronecka.

Since these actions could materially breach the plebiscite arrangements under the UN auspices, she said, they constitute a flagrant violation of Security Council resolutions, particularly with regard to realisation of the right to self-determination of the Kashmiris.

These Indian machinations notwithstanding, the Pakistani ambassador explained that relevant Council resolutions provide that "the final disposition of the State of Jammu and Kashmir will be made in accordance with the will of the people expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the United Nations".

The unilateral Indian action cannot revoke this legal ‘fact’ and is therefore, ultra vires and void, Ambassador Lodhi said.

Pakistan, she said, resolutely condemns this sly Indian attempt to perpetuate its illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir, adding, "The valiant Kashmiri struggle for self-determination cannot be crushed through a parliamentary act."

Kashmiris across the spectrum, the Pakistani envoy told President Wronecka, have unequivocally rejected the Indian move.

Moderate voices within India have also berated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for mortgaging Kashmir to its narrow political interests, she pointed out.

"Tellingly, India is fully aware of the illegality of its actions," she said, pointing out that the legislative ‘farce’ in the Indian Parliament was thus, preceded by additional deployment of 38,000 soldiers to the occupied territory, forced exodus of all outsiders, imposition of curfew, detention of the legitimate Kashmiri leadership, and suspension of communication services.

"These are not actions of a state with legitimate claims over a territory but are acts of a usurper who seeks to occupy a territory and subdue its people, under duress and subjugation," Ambassador Lodhi said.

In 2018, she said, Indian forces committed more than 2,350 ceasefire violations resulting in the martyrdom of 36 civilians while countless others sustained injuries, noting that this dangerous trend continues unabated during the current year.

"As the preeminent body tasked with the maintenance of international peace and security, the Security Council should take immediate cognisance of the situation," Ambassador Lodhi emphasised. "After all, at stake are not only the imperative for regional peace, but also the credibility and standing of the Council to uphold its own legally binding resolutions."

According to sources, the UNSC president listened to the Pakistani envoy and said she was closely following the developments in Kashmir.

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PM Imran to chair NSC meeting today, discuss IoK’s situation

Prime Minister Imran Khan has summoned a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) today (Wednesday), to discuss deteriorated situation of the Indian occupied Kashmir (IoK).

As per details,  Pakistan’s top civil and military leadership will meet in Islamabad for the second time in a week to discuss the prevailing situation in occupied Kashmir. Prime Minister Imran Khan will chair the NSC meeting.

The meeting will be briefed about the measures taken by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led government to deal with the Indian move about revoking Kashmir’s special status.

Prime Minister Imran Khan’s contacts with the world leaders would also be discussed in the meeting, said the sources.

“The federal cabinet meeting scheduled on Wednesday has been postponed owing to the NSC meeting,” the sources further said and added that now the cabinet meeting would he held on August 9.

Earlier on August 4, a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, had decided to give a befitting response to any Indian aggression across the line of control.

According to a declaration issued by the PM House, the NSC meeting had condemned the India aggression and use of cluster bomb on civilian population along the line of control (LoC),

On the occasion, Prime Minister Imran Khan had said that Pakistan would always stand with Kashmiris and will not be deterred from its just stance based on United Nations Security Council’s resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiri people.

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We have two ways, either bow down or stand firm against Indian aggression: Shehbaz Sharif

Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif vowed on Tuesday that neither was there a Palestine in the South Asian region nor would Pakistan let an Israel form, referring to India as the aggressor state as he talked of the ongoing Kashmir issue.

Shehbaz Sharif, also the president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), said the country was at a crossroads today and the choices it had was to either stay firm or bow down.

However, "bowing down is out of the question", the PML-N leader stressed.

"We have to stand firm for Kashmir. I believe [India Prime Minister] Narendra Modi has gone to the last extent in its tyranny in Kashmir and to coax some reaction out of Pakistan.

"We have to decide that this is not just about Kashmir but about Pakistan's independence," Shehbaz noted. "The water is already above our heads."

The Opposition leader further mentioned that the Indian PM had targeted Pakistan's jugular vein, which is why, "before he gets a chance to cut it, we need to cut his hands".

"Neither is there a Palestine nor won’t let an Israel form in the region," he underlined. "The BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] has not come into power for the first time in India."

Shehbaz underscored that a country's leadership helps its nation come out of storms and, in that context, the leadership needed "to stand up and stand strong now to tell the world that we're one and we will fight back to the fullest extent.

"I agree with the prime minister that we should send out one message to the world."

It is the voice of 220 million Pakistanis that they stand by the Kashmiri people's side.

'Kashmir issue has a direct link to Pakistan'
Noting that the session was called on an emerging issue that had a direct link to the country's foundation, the PML-N president said: “Pakistan is of Kashmiris and Kashmiris are of Pakistan."

Shehbaz said the Pakistani government had not presented its policy and strategy to counter the assault by Modi even after the passage of 24 hours.

He said: "There is every chance of genocide going on there [in Occupied Kashmir]. What are we planning on doing?"

He added that the Modi government had not only snatched the Kashmiris' rights but also challenged Pakistan's honour and slapped the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in its face.

Speaking on PM Khan's meeting with US President Donald Trump, Shehbaz said India twice negated the American leader's offer to mediate on the Kashmir issue. "Modi was quietly preparing for what happened in Kashmir," he said.

Shehbaz said it was Modi who was the hurdle in establishing peace in Afghanistan. "Was this President Trump's trump card of trap card?" Shehbaz asked.

“We accepted Trump's offer [to mediate]. Was our government not prepared for Modi’s intentions? Our government had no clue and were happy about Trump’s offer.”

"They couldn't sleep because of the excitement" from Trump's offer, he added.

The PML-N leader also asked as to why Pakistan's ally nations — including China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) — had not made any comments on the escalating Kashmir tension and termed it as isolation.

“I think we should tap the UNSC, OIC [Organisation of Islamic Cooperation], and our bilateral relations to give a firm response to Modi.

"If we take a firm stand against Modi and make preparations to counter his move, we will be fully supported.”

The Opposition leader concluded his address saying the nation, together, should vow to foil Modi's actions and continue fighting for Kashmiris' independence.

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